Gingivitis is the precursor to more serious gum disease. It is caused by the same bacteria in your mouth that causes cavities and is carried in plaque. Poor oral hygiene is the most direct cause, but could it actually be contagious? Well, there are two schools of thought on this.
Continue reading to learn more about gingivitis and see if you think it’s contagious or not. Here are the facts.
What Causes Gingivitis?
There are several factors that can contribute to the formation of gingivitis such as:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Lack of flossing
- High stress
- Hard-to-clean teeth
- Smoking
- Medications (steroids and a few antiseizure meds.)
- Poor diet of sugar and carbohydrates
These are some of the individual actions (or lack thereof) that usually accompany gingivitis and gum disease. Many experts believe that these actions are the true cause of the infection, and it isn’t contagious. This school of thought places more of the responsibility on the individual and their oral hygiene practices.
What Does the American Dental Association Think?
The American Dental Association is an organization that provides clinical guidelines, research, and data to many dentists in the US. Their stance is based on their own statistics and research into gingivitis.
For example, a study by the American Academy of Periodontology found that the disease can be passed genetically from mother to child. In addition, research shows that partners living together can also pass the disease through shared utensils, food, and drinks. Following the pattern, it could also be shared by kissing.
So, Is Gingivitis Contagious?
There is research to support the idea that the disease can be contagious. Its ability to spread from mothers to their children and between co-habiting partners is compelling evidence. However, some would still argue that some of the other factors would need to be present for the disease to spread.
If this is the case, is it really passed by saliva contact? Or did the other factors cause the infection? These are questions that should be more thoroughly investigated to come up with a definitive answer.
Until then, what do you think? Is it really a question to be splitting hairs about? Or should you simply do all you can to avoid it by taking care of your oral health? If you’ve already seen symptoms of gum disease, don’t delay. Seek treatment from your dentist as soon as possible. With professional cleaning and treatment, you can manage the disease and smile happily.
About the Practice
At Salt Run Family Dentistry, Dr. Mickey Leth and Dr. Bert Tavary work together to provide top-notch dental care. They utilize the latest dental technology and techniques to make your treatment fast, effective, and convenient. If you need help navigating your treatment plan, their friendly staff will guide you every step of the way. To schedule an appointment, call (904) 824-3540 or visit the website to delve into other services they offer.